Skip to main content

Estrogen Receptors

Meaning

Estrogen Receptors (ERs) are specialized intracellular and cell-surface proteins that bind to estrogenic compounds, such as estradiol, initiating a cascade of genomic and non-genomic cellular responses. These receptors, designated as ER-alpha and ER-beta, mediate the profound effects of estrogen on tissues including bone, vasculature, and the central nervous system. Their presence and affinity dictate tissue responsiveness to circulating estrogen levels.